We’re all invited to say farewell to two longtime Newmarket politicians who will be enjoying retirement soon after the Oct. 22 municipal election.
Mayor Tony Van Bynen, who was first elected in 2000, and Ward 2 Councillor Dave Kerwin, first elected in 1976, have both announced they would not be seeking re-election.
A final celebratory Mayor in the Square — the informal sit-downs the mayor has held throughout his term — will be held Saturday, Sept. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Riverwalk Commons at 200 Doug Duncan Dr.
Kerwin celebrates his farewell after nearly 40 years on council Sunday, Sept. 30 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Environmental Park on Woodspring Avenue.
Van Bynen counts among his proudest achievements award-winning projects such as the Magna Centre, Operations Centre, Riverwalk Commons, Belinda’s Place, rebuilding the Old Town Hall and the revitalization of Main Street, all of which have strengthened the town’s sense of community.
“In spite of a number of challenges over these years, Newmarket Council has consistently maintained its focus on making Newmarket even better,” the mayor said in announcing his retirement.
“Through five elections the residents of Newmarket have placed their confidence in me and that is something I can never forget,” he said. “I have been the fortunate steward of a great community.”
Van Bynen intends to remain involved in the community.
“As a private citizen, and together with my always supportive family, I hope to continue to play a role in the exciting future that lies ahead for our town,” Van Bynen added.
Kerwin, too, is proud of accomplishments that include the renovation of the Old Town Hall, revitalization of Main Street, Riverwalk Commons, Magna Centre, the purchase of the Stickwood Walker farm, and Tom Taylor Trail.
Known as an advocate of the environment, in particular, the Holland River and tributary trail system, a trail was named in his honour in the Environmental Park at the corner of Woodspring Avenue and Gilpin Drive in May 2010. The Dave Kerwin Trail stretches from Davis Drive to Newmarket’s northern boundary.
“No running shoes required, we’re retired,” was his announcement at council last June, handing an empty shoebox to his wife, Erika, to celebrate the fact they would not be out on the election campaign trail this year.
For more information about the community farewell events, call the Town of Newmarket at 905-953-5323.
